How to Water Air Plants in a Terrarium

Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, are a popular choice for terrariums due to their unique appearance and low-maintenance requirements. Unlike traditional plants, these species do not require soil to grow, but instead, absorb nutrients and moisture from the air. While this makes them relatively easy to care for, it's important to understand how to water air plants in a terrarium to ensure they thrive in their enclosed environment. Here are some important tips to get you started:

Know your terrarium

The first step in watering air plants in a terrarium is to understand the environment they are living in. Terrariums come in different shapes and sizes, and some may have specific features that affect the amount and frequency of water required. For instance, a sealed terrarium with a lid will have a more humid atmosphere and may require less water than an open terrarium. Similarly, a terrarium with rocks or other materials as a base will need less water than one with soil. Make sure to observe your terrarium regularly to determine how quickly it dries out, and adjust your watering routine accordingly.

Use the right water

The quality of water used for air plants is crucial to their health. Tap water contains chemicals such as chlorine and fluoride, which can harm air plants over time. Instead, use either distilled water or rainwater for watering air plants. Alternatively, you can leave tap water in an open container for 24 hours to allow the chlorine to evaporate before using it. Avoid using bottled water as it may not contain the minerals and nutrients your air plants need to thrive.

Mist or soak your air plants

There are two main methods of watering air plants in a terrarium: misting and soaking. Misting involves spraying the air plant with water once or twice a week using a spray bottle. This is a popular method because it is easy, quick, and doesn't require removing the plant from the terrarium. However, misting may not provide the plant with enough moisture and may lead to dry patches on the leaves.

The other method is soaking, which involves removing the air plant from the terrarium and submerging it in a bowl of water for around 15-30 minutes. This allows the plant to absorb as much water as it needs through its leaves. Soaking is recommended every two weeks for larger air plants and once a week for smaller ones. Make sure to shake off any excess water and let the plant dry completely before returning it to the terrarium.

Consider fertilizing

Air plants can benefit from occasional fertilization to ensure they receive all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. However, it's important to use a fertilizer specifically designed for air plants, as traditional plant fertilizers can be too harsh and damage the plant. A good air plant fertilizer should contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging carefully, as over-fertilization can cause harm to the plant.

In conclusion

Watering air plants in a terrarium requires a bit of knowledge and observation, but it's not as complicated as it may seem. By understanding your terrarium's environment, using the right water, and choosing the right watering method, your air plants can thrive and add a touch of unique greenery to any indoor space.